Dehiwala Zoo to announce names of popular lion cubs on July 3

Colombo, July 1 (Daily Mirror) - The National Zoological Gardens Department will announce the selected names for the two lion cubs born recently at the Dehiwala National Zoological Park, which have attracted widespread public attention and affection. The names were selected from suggestions submitted by animal lovers, and prizes will be awarded to those whose entries were chosen.

The announcement will be one of the highlights of the Dehiwala Zoo's 90th anniversary celebrations, scheduled to be held on July 3, 2026.

Established on July 3, 1936, the Dehiwala National Zoological Park has completed a remarkable 90-year journey as a leading institution dedicated to wildlife conservation, animal welfare, scientific research, conservation breeding and environmental education in Sri Lanka.

Spread across 23 acres of greenery, the zoo is home to a diverse collection of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and aquatic species from around the world. In addition to its animal exhibits, the zoo offers educational and recreational experiences through its aquarium, butterfly garden and various environmental awareness programmes.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the Department of National Zoological Gardens has also arranged a special opportunity for visitors to view the two lion cubs together with their mother at Lion Island.

In addition, the department will introduce the public to the Nile hippopotamus calf recently born at the zoo and launch a special naming competition for schoolchildren under the age of 18.

The Department has invited both local and foreign tourists to visit the Dehiwala Zoo and participate in the special events organised to commemorate its historic 90th anniversary.